The Sport and Active Wellbeing Report, which covers the 2023/24 academic year, has revealed a net benefit of £22.62 million, underscoring the institution’s commitment to promoting health, wellbeing, and community engagement.

The figure comprises £12.2 million in economic benefits and £10.42 million in social benefits, with a benefit-cost ratio (BCR) of 5.69, meaning that for every £1 invested, the University generated £5.69 in value, highlighting the effectiveness and value for money of its initiatives.

The economic contribution of the University’s sport and wellbeing activities has provided significant support to the local economy, created jobs and strengthened partnerships with regional and national organisations.

Meanwhile, social impact programmes have delivered benefits, such as improved mental health, enhanced social inclusion, and increased overall student satisfaction, contributing a further £10.42 million in value.

A total of 36,756 volunteer hours were recorded in 2023/24, equivalent to 21.8 full-time employees, demonstrating the dedication of students and staff to fostering community wellbeing.

More than 1.15 million participations were recorded across activities such as outdoor pitch events, climbing, fitness classes, swimming, and sports hall activities.

Wellbeing improvements contributed £6 million (57.6 per cent of the total social benefits), with quantifiable impacts on stress reduction, improved fitness, and decreased reliance on healthcare services.

Participation in sport and active wellbeing initiatives has been directly linked to enhanced academic performance, leadership development, and employability, aligning with the University’s core strategic goals.

Maree Todd MSP, Minister for Social Care, Mental Wellbeing, and Sport, expressed her enthusiasm for the findings: “The University of Edinburgh’s commitment to sport and active wellbeing underlines the profound value that these initiatives bring. The combined social and economic benefits highlight not just the transformative power of physical activity for individual health and wellbeing, but also its role in fostering community cohesion and driving economic growth across Edinburgh and Scotland. From enhancing the mental and physical wellbeing of students and staff to creating meaningful connections within the wider community, this report demonstrates how sport and active wellbeing can truly change lives.”

Dr Catherine Martin, Vice Principal, Corporate Services at the University of Edinburgh, added, “Sport and active wellbeing are integral to the fabric of the University of Edinburgh, playing a central role in the heartbeat of life for a significant proportion of our student and staff community. They not only enhance the university experience but also reflect our ambitions to grow and innovate, both within the City and through collaborations with national and international partners. This report underscores our belief in the transformative power of sport and wellbeing to shape not only individuals but also wider society.”

Mark Munro, Director of Sport and Active Wellbeing at the University of Edinburgh, commented on the findings: “Sport has the power to be life-changing, and that doesn’t have to be at the elite level. I am proud that we have many initiatives and partnerships running, from active wellbeing programmes right through to Olympic-level sports. This report gives us a great benchmark to build from and demonstrates the importance of sport in building a healthier future.”

In 2023, a report into the University’s economic and social impact found that the whole institution had more than 10 times the impact on the UK economy than the 2014 Commonwealth Games.

The independent financial study found that the University generates £7.52 billion per year to the UK economy compared with £740 million over seven years by the Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth games.

The University’s investment in sport and active wellbeing demonstrates a steadfast commitment to enriching the lives of students, staff, and the wider community. By building on these achievements, the University of Edinburgh continues to strengthen its reputation as a leader in health, wellbeing, and educational excellence, both in the UK and globally.

The report was commissioned by the University and independently developed and published by consultants, EKOS Ltd and Integratis.